Lib Dems Push to Restore Youth Opportunities with Europe

The Liberal Democrats are leading efforts to restore opportunities for young British people to live, work and study in Europe through a new parliamentary bill introduced this week.

James MacCleary MP presented the Youth Mobility Scheme (EU Countries) Bill which would enable 18-30 year olds from the UK and EU countries to live and work in each other's territories on a reciprocal basis.

"The immense damage caused by the Conservatives' botched Brexit deal is clear for all to see," MacCleary told Parliament. "This bill would give our young people back the chances they've lost to gain valuable skills, learn languages and bring that experience home to benefit our economy."

The proposal has strong public backing, with around 60% of voters supporting a reciprocal scheme with the EU. It builds on recommendations from the cross-party UK Trade and Business Commission's report "Trading Our Way to Prosperity."

The Liberal Democrats have set out a clear four-stage roadmap to repair Britain's relationship with Europe, including returning to the Erasmus Plus programme to expand opportunities for young people to study abroad. This bill represents another important step toward rebuilding those vital connections.

"The government needs to give young people in this country a proper explanation for why they continue to deny them these opportunities," said MacCleary. "It's time for a reset in how we work with our European neighbours."